Brooklyn has given a lot to the world, some of it good (Mel Brooks, the roller coaster) and some not so good (Al Capone, skinny jeans). And it’s no wonder: Did you know that if it were a city on its own, Brooklyn would be the third largest in the United States?
That’s right. With over 2.6 million residents, Brooklyn beats out Chicago and Houston in terms of population. No surprise, then, that this New York City borough has had an outsize influence, and it feels like a world of its own.
Around every corner, you’ll find pockets of vibrant culture, scenic streets, and incredible diversity. Plus, there’s a neighborhood for every kind of lifestyle. Whether you crave the tranquility of a Park Slope brownstone or the grime of a Bushwick warehouse party, Brooklyn has you covered.
Whether your priority is to land in one of the safest neighborhoods in Brooklyn, or you just want to figure out the nicest neighborhoods in Brooklyn, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the 8 best Brooklyn neighborhoods in the most important categories.
8 Best Brooklyn Neighborhoods
Greenpoint
Williamsburg
Brooklyn Heights
Bay Ridge
Crown Heights
DUMBO
Greenpoint
Fort Greene
To make our choices, we’ve examined several variables with respect to each neighborhood: safety, affordability, public transit access, what it’s known for, and other offerings. Maybe you’re looking for family-friendly streets, or you want to live with a bunch of artists in a loft. Whatever the case, this guide will help you figure out which part of Brooklyn could be your new home.
1) Greenpoint — Best Neighborhood for Families
Average rent: $4,700
Average home value: $1.2 million
Best for: Families, safety, nightlife
Known for: Peaceful environment, proximity to the waterfront, community
Getting around: Subway lines: G. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 20-30 minutes.
Positioned on the East River and tucked away in North Brooklyn, there’s a solid argument for calling Greenpoint one of the overall best Brooklyn neighborhoods. You’ve got something for everyone here — excellent restaurants, legendary music venues, and an off-the-beaten-track identity all its own. Plus, with a low crime rate and two tremendous parks, WNYC Transmitter Park and McGolrick Park, it’s become one of the best places to raise a family in Brooklyn.
For years, Greenpoint was a haven for Polish immigrants, and the European vibe is still strong. You’ll find grand old churches, bodegas stocking Polish beer, and some of the best perogies in North America.
2) Williamsburg — Hippest Neighborhood
Average rent: $4,184
Average home value: $1.05 million
Best for: Artists, young professionals, nightlife
Known for: Hipster vibe, galleries, live music, trendy restaurants
Getting around: Subway lines: L, G. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 15-20 minutes.
WillieB, Billyburg, or The Burg are names you could — but probably shouldn't — use for what may be Brooklyn’s most famous enclave. Once a bastion for artists and creatives in the 1990s, Williamsburg has transformed into one of the most upscale neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Though it may have a new sheen in recent years, Williamsburg’s combination of a cultural scene, historic artistic community, and nightlife makes it still the hippest neighborhood in Brooklyn.
Those artists squatting in lofts are long gone, but you’ll still find progressive-minded creatives and young professionals. Spend your Saturday afternoons walking along the water at Domino Park or have a picnic in McCarren Park. (And if you want to stay on the locals’ good side, just use the neighborhood’s full name.)
3) Brooklyn Heights — Nicest Neighborhood in Brooklyn
Average rent: $4,310
Average home value: $1.3 million
Best for: Wealthy professionals, families, scenic views
Known for: Stunning brownstones, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, picturesque streets
Getting around: Subway lines: 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, R. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 10-20 minutes.
When you think of quintessential Brooklyn — tree-lined streets, brownstones, a crisp morning, and a fresh cup of coffee — you’re thinking of Brooklyn Heights. One of the nicest neighborhoods in Brooklyn, it’s full of historic architecture, charming townhouses, and a timeless elegance that draws families and professionals alike.
Plus, the water is breathtaking. While the East River used to be famous for pollution — and unfortunate souls wearing cement shoes — the Brooklyn Heights Promenade now offers sweeping views of glittering water and the lower Manhattan skyline. With its quiet, picturesque streets and a strong sense of community, it’s no wonder this area is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
4) Bay Ridge — Best Neighborhood to Buy a House
Average rent: $1,830
Average home value: $735,576 (link to source)
Best for: Homebuyers, suburban feel in the city
Known for: Quiet streets, local community, affordable homeownership
Getting around: Subway lines: R. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 40-50 minutes.
The idea of buying a house in Brooklyn might sound like something you’d need to fuhgeddabout, but believe it or not, there are still some affordable parts of the borough. For instance, Bay Ridge offers a slice of suburban life but with a Brooklyn address. Located in the lower part of Brooklyn, Bay Ridge provides spacious streets, welcoming communities, and easy access to public transit. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, too-often underrated, but definitely one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
5) Crown Heights — Best Neighborhood for Cultural Diversity
Average rent: $2,746
Average home value: $967,644
Best for: Cultural diversity, vibrant nightlife, families
Known for: Caribbean influence, cultural landmarks, restaurants, and bars
Getting around: Subway lines: 2, 3, 4, 5. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 20-30 minutes.
Energetic nightlife, annual festivals, street fairs, or some of the best Caribbean food in New York City — you never know what you’re gonna run into in Crown Heights. The neighborhood’s lively atmosphere and diversity foster an exciting and progressive community for families and young professionals alike that blends cultures, flavors, and traditions. Whether exploring the bustling Eastern Parkway during the West Indian Day Parade or grabbing a bite at a local jerk chicken spot, Crown Heights offers a rich cultural scene.
6) Bushwick — Most Artsy Neighborhood
Average rent: $3,634
Average home value: $821,523
Best for: Renters, artists, affordability
Known for: Street art, creative community, affordability compared to neighboring areas like Williamsburg
Getting around: Subway lines: L, M. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 30 minutes.
One iron law of Brooklyn real estate is that any neighborhood dubbed “artsy” will soon have no artists left. And in accordance with that law, Brooklyn’s art scene has moved from ever-pricier Williamsburg to Bushwick over the past 20 years or so.
A traditionally working-class and industrial neighborhood, Bushwick has become a favorite for young renters looking for a creative scene and affordable apartments. And while plenty of trendy spots continue to pop up, including one of the city’s hottest restaurant scenes, it maintains a certain charming grit.
7) Park Slope — Safest Neighborhood
Average rent: $4,265
Average home value: $1.37 million
Best for: Families, safety, parks
Known for: Quiet, family-friendly vibe, proximity to Prospect Park, great schools
Getting around: Subway lines: F, G, R. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 20-30 minutes.
There’s an old joke in Brooklyn: If you care about cheap beer, go to North Brooklyn. If you care about nice coffee, go to South Brooklyn. Here, in Park Slope, you’ll find that coffee amongst the neighborhood’s charming, tree-lined streets.
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, quiet vibes, and top-rated schools, it’s one of the safest neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Plus, if you’re yearning for green spaces, Prospect Park is right there. Go ahead and get lost exploring.
8) Fort Greene — Best Neighborhood for Young Professionals
Average rent: $4,235
Average home value: $1.2 million
Best for: Culture lovers, nightlife, historic charm
Known for: Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), Fort Greene Park, arts scene
Getting around: Subway lines: C, G, Q, R. Travel time to Midtown: approximately 20-30 minutes.
Fort Greene strikes the perfect balance between historic charm and modern energy, making it a go-to spot for young professionals. It’s also a magnet for artists and art lovers — the neighborhood is home to the iconic Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), a hub for musical performances, theater, film screenings, and art exhibitions.
You’ve also got access to the expansive Fort Greene Park, an often underrated gem overshadowed by nearby Prospect Park. It’s a pleasant little community — cozy cafes, hip bars, and a creative and energetic environment.
FAQs About the Best Brooklyn Neighborhoods
What is the nicest neighborhood in Brooklyn?
The nicest neighborhood in Brooklyn is often considered to be Brooklyn Heights. Known for its stunning brownstones, tree-lined streets, and breathtaking Manhattan skyline views from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, this area offers historic charm and upscale living.
What is the wealthiest part of Brooklyn?
Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO (which stands for "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass") are among the wealthiest areas in Brooklyn. Brooklyn Heights boasts multimillion-dollar brownstones and luxury homes, while DUMBO is known for its high-end lofts, trendy restaurants, and proximity to the waterfront.
What is the safest area in Brooklyn to live?
Park Slope is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Its family-friendly vibe, quiet streets, and strong community feel make it a popular choice for those seeking safety and a peaceful environment.
What is the artsy area of Brooklyn?
Both Williamsburg and Bushwick are known as the artsy areas of Brooklyn. Williamsburg has long been a hub for creatives, offering trendy galleries, music venues, and a vibrant nightlife. Bushwick is famous for its street art, underground art scene, and a growing number of creative spaces, making it a haven for artists and musicians.
Make Your Move to Brooklyn Smooth and Stress-Free
A tree once grew in Brooklyn — will you grow yours? No matter which part captures your heart, or which you think is the best neighborhood in Brooklyn, moving in is the next big challenge. Navigating Brooklyn’s busy streets on foot or on bicycle is one thing, but a moving truck is another level.
If you’re moving out of state to Brooklyn or otherwise making a long-distance move, you’ve got your work cut out for you. To make it easier, let the pros handle the logistics — from packing to transportation — so you can focus on settling into your new Brooklyn home. With Colonial Van Lines’s expertise, your move will be smooth and hassle-free.
Start your Brooklyn adventure on the right foot. Get a free quote today!